15001700luvulla

15001700luvulla refers to the period spanning the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries in European history, a time commonly known as the Early Modern period. This era witnessed profound transformations across various facets of society, culture, and politics. The Renaissance, a cultural movement that began in Italy, gained momentum, emphasizing a revival of classical art, literature, and philosophy. This intellectual ferment contributed to a shift in worldview, moving away from purely medieval perspectives.

Exploration and discovery characterized this period, with European navigators embarking on ambitious voyages that led to the "discovery" of the Americas and the establishment of global trade routes. This led to the Columbian Exchange, a vast transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, diseases, and ideas between the Americas, West Africa, and the Old World. The Protestant Reformation, initiated by Martin Luther in the early 16th century, fractured the religious unity of Western Europe, leading to centuries of religious conflict and the establishment of new Christian denominations.

Politically, nation-states began to consolidate power, with monarchs centralizing authority and developing more sophisticated administrative systems. This period also saw the rise of new scientific understanding, laying the groundwork for the Scientific Revolution that would follow. The invention of the printing press had a revolutionary impact on the dissemination of knowledge and ideas, making them more accessible to a wider population. The economic landscape evolved with the growth of mercantilism and the increasing importance of international trade.